Outcomes of Stay Strong, Stay Healthy in Community Settings

Abstract

Loss of muscle strength, flexibility, and balance are strong predictors of falls in the elderly. Objectives: The goal of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of a 10-week, strength-based exercise program delivered by Extension professionals. Methods: Matched pair t tests were used to compare differences in five measures of fitness collected from 808 participants (mean age = 65.4 years) at the start and finish of the exercise program. Results: Following programming, participants significantly improved strength, flexibility, and balance. Discussion: Results indicate that an evidence-based program can be translated into a community Extension program that is able to improve the fitness level of seniors.